An annual charity walk in memory of a Petersfield tradesman has once again been a record-breaker with more than £15,000 being raised for three good causes.

Kevan Birkett’s legacy is surely as concrete as the town’s pavements with more than 400 people taking part in the fourth annual March for Men with Kev.

And those who turned the town blue on September 13 also raised plenty of pounds, with £15,700 being split between Prostate Cancer UK, PCaSO and Petersfield hospice at home charity, The Rosemary Foundation.

“Every year I am overwhelmed by the incredible support we receive from our wonderful community,” said Kevan’s wife, Claire Birkett, on announcing the final total.

“Kev would be absolutely blown away by what this event has become.

“What started as a way of remembering him has grown into something truly special, bringing people together, raising much-needed funds, and – most importantly – encouraging men to take their health seriously.”

Kevan Birkett Petersfield
The late Kevan Birkett, from Petersfield. (The Birkett Family)

The Petersfield Award-winning March for Men with Kev is held annually in memory of the family man and Leeds United support who devoted his final months to raising awareness of prostate cancer, testing and symptoms.

The march begins in The Square and sees fundraisers take part in a 2.5k, 5k or 10k circular walk around town, with registration costing a bargain £5.

Mr Birkett, who died in May 2023, was determined to encourage other men to be more aware of their health, to recognise potential warning signs, and seek medical advice when needed.

His “early action saves lives” message remains at the heart of the annual march, with the September event also taking place a day after a PSA testing event in Petersfield Festival Hall. Organisers consistently encourage more men to take an active interest in their health and have those potentially life-saving conversations.

The event has consistently grown over the decade, with the latest being the biggest and most successful to date.

Organisers have thanked everyone from the dedicated marshals and volunteers to helped on the day to the generous local businesses around town who decorated their windows, donated prizes and support fundraising activities before the big day.

PP March Men Quiz Annie Jones
Quiz nights, like this one at Annie Jones, and other fundraising activities have swelled the coffers. (Lucinda Long)

“We just can’t thank everyone enough,” added Claire.

“Our walkers, volunteers, marshals, sponsors, local businesses and everyone who donated or supported us in any way – thank you.

“To see more than 400 people walking through Petersfield in blue, remembering Kev and helping us spread such an important message means more than I can put into words.

“But more importantly, if sharing Kev’s story encourages just one man to seek medical advice and potentially saves a life, then everything we do is worthwhile.”

Claire concluded: “Together we are keeping Kev’s legacy alive and we look forward to turning Petersfield blue again next year.”

Organisers aren’t slowing down as a date has already confirmed for the 2027 event. Fundraisers and walkers have been urged to save the date as the fifth annual March for Men with Kev will take place on September 12.

More details at www.marchformenwithkev.co.uk